Sunday, April 6, 2008

Goodbye


I've been away from art for a couple of months, getting better after a medical issue. It's been a rough winter in many ways, not the least of which was the loss of a dear, long-time friend, Ed. His funeral yesterday was a combination of horrific sadness and, amazingly and oddly, fun. Ed, a costume designer by trade and inclination (he designed for the Boston Ballet for many years), enjoyed dressing as Father Christmas each holiday season. He wanted to make his exit from this world in his Father Christmas outfit, and so he did, crown, fur, bells and all! His coffin was decorated with golden icons and holly and evergreen branches. The final, and most telling thing about what a wonderful person Ed was is in the music that rang him out of the church at the end of the ceremony: "Joy to the World." Ed brought a lot of joy into people's lives, as Father Christmas and as himself. He brought much joy to my life and I will miss him dearly.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...
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Eraethil said...

Some friends are truly part of our family. Very sorry for your loss.

Barbara Carr said...

Thanks, Eraethil; I appreciate your comments.

The Wandering Blues said...

Such a beautiful sentiment. And I'm sure the service was very moving. Seems to me the saltiest tears are mixed of joy and sorrow. Made me smile with misty eyes just reading about it.

Barbara Carr said...

Thanks, Curtis. The service WAS moving; plus, I was asked to do a reading, which was terrifying and calming at the same time.

Anonymous said...
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The Stamping Dragon said...

“Let no one weep for me, or celebrate my funeral with mourning; for I still live, as I pass to and fro through the mouths of men”

Quintus Ennius
239 BC-170 BC

Barbara Carr said...

Thanks, SD; the quote is touching and funny, the same as Ed.